Chandigarh: Skywatchers across northwest India are in for a striking celestial display on Tuesday as a total lunar eclipse paints the full moon in deep shades of red. The India Meteorological Department has confirmed that the phenomenon will be visible across most of the country, including Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana — though with a limited viewing window.
Often referred to as a “Blood Moon,” the event occurs when Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow that gradually envelops the lunar surface.
Why This Eclipse Is Different for Northwest India
While the eclipse begins in the afternoon, viewers in Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana will not see its early stages. The Moon will still be below the horizon when the eclipse reaches totality.
By the time the Moon rises in these regions — around 6:19 pm to 6:30 pm IST — it will already be emerging from Earth’s darkest shadow. This means residents will witness the Moon appearing at the eastern horizon with a dusky red or copper tint, but only for a short span before the eclipse concludes at 6:48 pm IST.
Clear skies and an unobstructed eastern view will be crucial, as buildings or trees could block the low-rising Moon during this narrow window.
What Happens During a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse takes place on a full moon night when Earth’s umbral shadow completely covers the Moon. Unlike a solar eclipse, it is entirely safe to observe with the naked eye.
The reddish hue occurs because sunlight bends through Earth’s atmosphere before reaching the Moon. In effect, the Moon is illuminated by filtered sunlight from all the sunrises and sunsets happening across Earth at that moment.
Key Timings (IST) For Lunar Eclipse on March 3
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3:20 pm — Penumbral phase begins; subtle dimming starts
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4:34 pm — Total eclipse begins; Moon fully inside Earth’s umbra
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5:33 pm — Total phase ends; Moon begins exiting umbra
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6:19–6:30 pm — Moonrise across Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi-NCR
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6:48 pm — Eclipse ends completely
Total duration of the eclipse: 3 hours 28 minutes
Duration of total (Blood Moon) phase: 59 minutes
City-Wise Viewing Window
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Chandigarh — Moonrise at 6:19 pm | Approximately 29 minutes of visibility
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Jalandhar — Moonrise at 6:25 pm | Around 23 minutes
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Amritsar — Moonrise at 6:30 pm | Around 18 minutes
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North Haryana — Moonrise at 6:20 pm | Around 28 minutes
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Delhi-NCR — Moonrise at 6:25 pm | Around 23 minutes
Viewing Tips
No special filters or protective gear are required. However, binoculars or a small telescope can enhance colour details and shadow patterns.
Experts recommend stepping out before 6:15 pm IST to secure a viewing spot with a clear eastern horizon. Rural areas, open terraces, fields or elevated ground will offer the best vantage points, as city light pollution can dull the Moon’s reddish tones.
By the time the Moon becomes clearly visible in northwest India, the total phase will have ended, so observers should expect a partially shadowed Moon glowing in shades of orange and red rather than a fully crimson disc.
A Rare Opportunity
This total lunar eclipse is part of a globally visible event stretching across East Asia, Australia, the Pacific and the Americas. In India, only some far western areas may miss it entirely.
The next lunar eclipse visible from India will be a partial one on July 6, 2028, making tonight’s total eclipse a relatively rare spectacle for local skywatchers.
For those hoping to catch the sight, punctuality and clear skies will be key — the show ends promptly at 6:48 pm IST.
